Whether navigating health concerns, financial difficulties or major life changes, life can sometimes feel overwhelming—often when we least expect it. There can be moments when it’s difficult to stay grounded, let alone optimistic.
At Case Western Reserve University, services offered by University Health and Counseling Services (UHCS) and the CWRU Wellness Program help support the mental and emotional well-being of students, faculty and staff members during these times through accessible care, educational workshops and other resources.
To recognize National Hope Month, which is observed each April, The Daily spoke with four UHCS Peer Health Educators, who shared ways to stay positive—even during periods of uncertainty or stress.
From small mindset shifts to daily habit changes, read on to discover their suggestions.
Answers have been edited for clarity and length.
Juhyun Rebecca Baik
Fourth-year biology student with double minors in chemistry and bioethics and medical humanities on the pre-medicine track
One way I stay positive is by practicing purposeful gratitude through writing in my journal. I start with [focusing on] smaller parts of life, such as the fact that I have Mitchell’s ice cream in the freezer or how the sun doesn’t set so early anymore. From there, I move on to the health of my family and my friendships. This helps me to be appreciative, which gives me the strength to take a deep breath and sort through stress. Another way I stay positive is going outside for a walk as it allows me to appreciate nature, take deep breaths of fresh air and enjoy the presence of a friend. I learned that while staying positive can be difficult, it’s not impossible. I believe that hope can be found even in the smallest of places.
Momoko Monzur
First-year neuroscience student on the pre-medicine track
Sometimes, the habits we have and the words we choose to speak can have a large impact on how much work it’ll take toward staying happy. Avoiding consistent self-deprecating jokes, increasing positive conversations about the people around you and taking time out of your day to do a hobby can greatly increase the quality of your overall mood. Reflecting on yourself and making sure it’s a fulfilling day can help you anticipate your future and make your thoughts more fulfilling.
Rachel Bhagat
Second-year medical anthropology student on the pre-medicine track with a minor in Spanish
When things feel overwhelming from uncontrollable circumstances—like world and national events—I take things off my plate to prioritize myself and take time to take care of myself. This can look like catching up on sleep, cooking myself a meal and engaging in something I enjoy. Additionally, I like to keep a list of three things to accomplish for the day. The most helpful way I get through overwhelming situations is by talking to my friends and therapist about my struggles. Receiving validation, support and advice from my support group helps me feel grounded and hold onto hope.
Sarah Gordon
Third-year psychology student on the pre-medicine track with minors in childhood studies, chemistry and biology
When life gets overwhelming, taking a step back helps. To keep positivity, I try to de-stress and reset. My personal go-tos are walking outside—when Cleveland is feeling kind enough to be sunny—talking with friends and getting sweet treats. Having these little activities is the perfect pick-me-up in the middle of a long day. If I can’t find time to do a pick-me-up throughout the day, I try to schedule some type of self-care at the end of the day, whether it’s something small like scrolling on TikTok for an extra 15 minutes or something grand like going to dinner with friends. Taking time to do something for myself that is not strictly school related helps [improve] my mood and remind me how there is so much more to life outside of academics and that I shouldn’t let extracurricular activities and classes become my whole day.